The power of microbiome
Bacteria and fungi are not just found in the gut but on the skin as well. They positively impact the wellbeing just as the state of the skin. With a few easy tips incooperated in the daily routine, one can support the skin health and unleash the power of microbiome!
Who knew tiny little organisms could make such a big impact? That’s right, we’re talking about the microbiome, the diverse community of microorganisms living on and in our bodies, including the skin. One could think of them as tiny roommates, but instead of paying rent, they keep the skin healthy and glowing. The skin is the largest organ and its health can be greatly impacted by the microbiome that lives on it. The right kind of bacteria can actually be very beneficial to the skin. Scientists have discovered that certain microbes, such as those found in probiotics, are essential for maintaining healthy skin and helping to protect against conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis. So if you want to improve the health of your skin, it’s important to consider the microbiome that lives on it.
What is Microbiome?
The microbiome is a fascinating, buzzing world of its own. It exists all around us, both within and on our bodies. Precisecly, microbiome are the tens of trillions of bacteria and fungi, among other organisms, living inside the human body. These microorganisms live not just in our gut, but on the skin as well.
So why is it important to care about microbiome? Simply because having a healthy microbiome can positively impact the overall wellbeing by regulating immune system responses and helping to fight off germs.
And just recently microbiome has been linked to improving skin health. With studies finding associations between microbiome diversity and fewer skin issues such as eczema or psoriasis, it looks like microbiome may be an important part of achieving good skincare.
How does it effect skin health?
The microbiome has a huge impact on the health of the skin. Having a balanced microbiome helps to keep skin hydrated and healthy, as well as protecting it from damage caused by pollutants or ultraviolet light. At the same time, microbiome also helps to fight off bacteria that can cause inflammation and breakouts. In other words—microbiome is essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin.
Ways to improve skin microbiome
- Eat a healthy diet: One of the best ways to improve skin microbiome is to eat a healthy diet. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will provide the skin with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. Additionally, avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks will help to keep skin microbiome in balance.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals on the skin: Another way to improve skin microbiome is to avoid using harsh chemicals on the skin. This includes both topical and oral products that contain harsh chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. These chemicals can disrupt the delicate balance of the skin microbiome, leading to inflammation and other skin problems.
- Use probiotic-rich products: Using probiotic-rich products on the skin is another great way to improve skin microbiome. Probiotics are live bacteria that can help to restore balance to the skin microbiome. Look for skincare products that contain live cultures or fermented ingredients such as yogurt, kefir, or kombucha.
- Spend time in nature: Spending time in nature is also a great way to improve your skin microbiome. Exposure to sunlight and fresh air can help to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria on the skin. Additionally, spending time in nature can help to reduce stress levels, which can also impact the health of the skin microbiome.
Foods that support Microbiome
- Probiotic-rich foods: Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to human health. They are often referred to as “good” or “friendly” bacteria, as they help to keep the gut healthy. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso.
- Prebiotic-rich foods: Prebiotics are indigestible fibers that act as food for probiotics. They help to keep the gut healthy by providing a source of nutrition for probiotics. Prebiotic-rich foods include bananas, onions, garlic, leeks, and asparagus.
- Fermented foods: Fermented foods are rich in probiotics and prebiotics. They include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso. Fermented foods help to keep the gut healthy by providing a source of nutrition for probiotics and by helping to increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
- Fibre-rich foods: Fibre is an indigestible carbohydrate that helps to keep the gut healthy by promoting regularity and preventing constipation. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
- Healthy fats: Healthy fats are essential for a healthy gut. They help to promote regularity and prevent constipation. Healthy fats include olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds.
- Antioxidant-rich foods: Antioxidants are compounds that help to protect the body against disease. They help to reduce inflammation in the body and promote a healthy immune system. Antioxidant-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, dark chocolate, and green tea.
Impacts on Microbiome
The microbiome could be compared to an invisible army inside the body that keeps it healthy. Wise choices regarding a healthy diet and lifestyle, can ensure that this hardworking microbiome will take care of the body and its health in return. Eating a balanced diet rich in plant-based foods and maintaining an active lifestyle helps to maintain a good balance of bacteria on the skin, which can lead to improved skin health and more. In short, look out for your microbiome and it will look out for you.